Can Unposted Lands Be Hunted?

August 18, 2011

Question: Is it true that land that is outside the city limits, is neither posted, under cultivation nor fenced, and is more than 150 yards away from an occupied dwelling, would be legal to hunt? Would there be any distinctions between hunting with a bow, rifle or shotgun? (Charlie C.)

Answer: No, there are many areas meeting this description that would not be open to hunting. Some examples include: 1) County, state or federally designated parks, 2) Recreation or historic areas, 3) Any unincorporated area designated as a firearms closure area by city or county ordinances, or 4) Lands within one mile of most federally designated camp grounds, such as those in a National Forest.

It may make a difference in some of these circumstances (like in an area that is closed to the discharge of firearms) whether or not you were using a firearm or archery equipment. Hunting trespass is a serious violation and you must make certain that the area you wish to hunt is open not only for entry but also to the discharge of firearms and take of wildlife. Your game warden can provide the best and most current information for the area in question. To contact a game warden, go to dfg.ca.gov/regions/.